Burt Rodrigues CEO of Biodx gives his thoughts on approaching the Easter holidays.

“If Stephen King had written his best ever horror story, it couldn’t compare with the reality of living with Covid-19 for the last year. Now in its third wave for many European countries and nearing three million deaths worldwide and over 52 000 in South Africa, this Tsunami of a virus has been a rollercoaster of epic proportions.

Complacency kills

“For now South Africa is under lockdown level 1, but with Easter and school holidays around the corner, what are the chances of a third wave hitting South Africa and seeing numbers once again rising beyond those seen before?“According to Health Minister Zweli Mkhize, not only could the Easter Holidays, seeing family reunions and the possibility of super-spreader events happening, but there’s the added threat the virus would likely spread again during the winter months.

“Vaccinology professor Shabir Madhi, director of the South African Medical Research Council Respiratory and Meningeal Pathogens Research Unit at Wits, recently commented that “The virus is completely unpredictable but we have complete control over our own behaviour. Most infections are caused by gatherings and flouted preventative measures, which is a fear of the April holidays,” he said.

“It’s really up to us as individuals to act sensibly and not change the behaviour that has seen us be able to go to Level 1. Keep away from large gatherings, keep the masks on and don’t forget to use sanitiser. Carry your own sanitiser with you so you can be sure that wherever you go you can be protected” continues Rodrigues.

Our economy can’t take another lockdown

“Apart from the health risks our economy, already on its knees, can’t take any further lockdowns. If this isn’t enough incentive to keep yourself and others safe, then what is? There will always be another Easter or Christmas but will you and all your loved ones still be around to see it?”